The NSW government has been slammed for its decision to hold a special commission of Inquiry rather than a royal commission to investigate the state's ailing health system.
The inquiry's been ordered after a coroner investigating the death of Vanessa Anderson criticised the treatment of the teenager, saying her death could have been prevented.
But the state opposition says only a royal commission will unearth the major problems bringing down the system
Health Minister Reba Meagher said she is confident the inquiry has enough power to do the job.
“A special commission of inquiry can compel witnesses to appear, and it’s a decision for individuals whether they volunteer to appear or not,” she said.
“But as a Minister of the crown, we’re in the parliament answering questions all the time on different areas related to our portfolios.
“There are many levels of accountability.”
But Opposition Leader Barry O’Farrell put the blame for the state's health system squarely on Meagher and Premier Morris Iemma.
“Reba Meagher’s incompetent, she deserves not to be in the job, but it’s clear from this finding today that she was handed a hospital pass by the former Health Minister, Morris Iemma,” he said.
